France fell 2-0 to Spain and can no longer pursue a third World Cup title. France's World Cup adventure ended at the gates of the 2026 final. Facing an impressive Spain that dominated technically in the first semifinal at a sold-out Dallas Stadium, Didier Deschamps' side lost 2-0. The defeat ended France's streak of six consecutive victories in this tournament and their ambition to reach a third consecutive World Cup final after 2018 and 2022.
From the opening whistle, the European champions imposed their rhythm through fluid ball circulation and technical dominance that quickly put the French under pressure. Despite some counterattacks led by Bradley Barcola and Kylian Mbappé, the Tricolores struggled to escape their half. The first warning came with Adrien Rabiot's yellow card, before the turning point arrived in the 22nd minute. On a cross from Marc Cucurella, Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal in the box. Without hesitation, the referee awarded a penalty converted by Mikel Oyarzabal, catching Mike Maignan off guard. France's task became more complicated with William Saliba's injury exit at the half-hour mark. Despite some crucial interventions from Dayot Upamecano, Spain continued to control the ball and dictate the pace until halftime.
After the break, Didier Deschamps attempted to revive his team by bringing on Manu Koné. The French showed more enterprise, but their attacks ran into a perfectly organized Spanish defense. Just as France seemed to regain confidence, Pedro Porro struck a near-fatal blow. In the 58th minute, the Spanish fullback concluded a perfectly constructed collective move with Dani Olmo with a powerful strike to score the second goal. France then tried everything to get back into the match. Mbappé forced Unai Simón into several decisive saves, while Désiré Doué also had a good chance late in the game. But Spanish defensive solidity and goalkeeper composure definitively closed the door on any French comeback.
Thanks to goals from Oyarzabal and Porro, Spain deservedly won and secured their ticket to the 2026 World Cup final. The European champions continue their remarkable run and now await the winner of the second semifinal between England and Argentina. Only one step separates Spain from a second World Cup title, sixteen years after their only triumph in 2010.